from an unused root meaning to repress; a parapet; battlement.
Transliteration:maʻăqeh
Pronunciation:mah-ak-eh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4624}}` (מַעֲקֶה, *maʻăqeh*) derives from an unused root that conveys the sense of "to repress" or "to restrain." This etymological foundation directly informs its core meaning: a protective barrier designed to prevent falling or to provide a safeguard. Specifically, `{{H4624}}` refers to a "parapet" or "battlement," a low wall or railing typically found on a roof or along an elevated structure. Its semantic range is quite narrow, consistently pointing to a physical safety mechanism.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H4624}}` appears only once in the Masoretic Text, in a highly significant legislative context within the book of Deuteronomy.
* [[Deuteronomy 22:8]]: "When you build a new house, you shall make a parapet for your roof, so that you do not bring bloodguilt on your house if anyone falls from it."
This solitary occurrence is profoundly illustrative. Ancient Israelite homes often featured flat roofs that served as extensions of living space, used for various activities such as sleeping, drying produce, or social gatherings. Without a protective railing, these roofs posed a significant hazard. The divine command to construct a maʻăqeh is therefore a practical and ethical imperative. It is situated within a broader section of Deuteronomic law that emphasizes social responsibility and the sanctity of human life, demonstrating God's meticulous concern for the well-being and safety of His people. The explicit mention of "bloodguilt" underscores the serious consequences of negligence and the divine expectation of preventative care.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept embodied by `{{H4624}}` resonates with other biblical terms and principles related to protection, boundaries, and safety.
* **Protective Structures:** While `{{H4624}}` specifically denotes a roof parapet, it shares a functional affinity with words for "wall" (e.g., `{{H2346}}` חֹמָה, *chomah*) or "fence" (e.g., `{{H1447}}` גָדֵר, *gader*), which also serve to delineate space and provide security.
* **Safety and Security:** The underlying principle of the maʻăqeh is to ensure "safety" or "security" (e.g., `{{H983}}` בֶּטַח, *betach*). It is a tangible expression of foresight to prevent harm.
* **Laws of Responsibility:** The command concerning the maʻăqeh aligns with other Mosaic laws that address accidental harm and the responsibility to prevent it, such as regulations concerning an ox known to gore ([[Exodus 21:28-32]]) or the proper handling of dangerous pits ([[Exodus 21:33-34]]). These laws collectively emphasize the community's obligation to protect its members from preventable dangers.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular appearance, the theological weight of `{{H4624}}` is substantial. It reveals several profound aspects of God's character and His covenant demands:
* **Divine Concern for Life:** The command to build a maʻăqeh vividly illustrates God's deep and practical concern for human life and physical safety, even in the mundane details of daily living. It underscores the sanctity of life, a foundational principle in biblical ethics.
* **Ethical Responsibility and Prevention:** The injunction moves beyond mere prohibition to proactive ethical responsibility. It mandates foresight and preventative action to avert potential harm and "bloodguilt." This teaches that negligence leading to injury or death is a serious offense in God's eyes, requiring accountability.
* **Holistic Nature of the Law:** The inclusion of such a specific building regulation within the Mosaic Law demonstrates its comprehensive and holistic nature. God's law is not confined to ritual or grand theological pronouncements but permeates all aspects of human existence, including domestic life and community well-being.
* **Love of Neighbor:** Implicit in the maʻăqeh command is the principle of loving one's neighbor. By protecting those who might be on one's roof, the homeowner demonstrates practical care and responsibility for the lives of others, reflecting God's own benevolent character.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H4624}}` (מַעֲקֶה, *maʻăqeh*) denotes a parapet or protective railing, specifically mandated for rooftops in [[Deuteronomy 22:8]]. Though appearing only once, its significance is profound. This command transcends a mere building code; it is a divine injunction rooted in God's meticulous concern for human life and safety. It underscores the ethical imperative for individuals within the covenant community to act with foresight and responsibility, preventing harm and avoiding "bloodguilt." The maʻăqeh thus serves as a powerful symbol of God's holistic law, which demands not only adherence to ritual but also a proactive, compassionate commitment to the well-being of others, reflecting the divine value placed upon every human life.
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